Cranberry Gin Smash Cocktail
Refreshing, tart, and vibrant gin cocktail with cranberry, lime, and a hint of ginger ale. Perfect for parties or any occasion, with a beautiful ruby color and crisp botanical flavor.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Strainer
- Measuring jigger
- Cocktail glass
- Bar spoon
- Ice
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice unsweetened or sweetened
- 1 oz ginger ale
- 0.5 lime cut into wedges
- fresh cranberries optional, for muddling and garnish
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar or simple syrup optional, for sweetness
- ice cubes
- fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Toss the lime wedges, cranberries, and sugar (if using) into the shaker and muddle well.
- Add the gin and cranberry juice.
- Fill with ice and shake for about 10 seconds.
- Strain the mix into your cocktail glass over fresh ice.
- Top with ginger ale and give a gentle stir.
- Finish with a few extra cranberries and a mint sprig if desired.
Notes
Fresh lime brightens things up, but bottled works in a pinch. Use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available. Add more ginger ale for extra fizz. Don’t over-muddle cranberries to avoid bitterness. A splash of club soda can lighten things up, and fresh mint makes for a festive garnish.